Date of Completion
4-24-2014
Embargo Period
4-23-2014
Major Advisor
Orville Karan
Associate Advisor
Robin Grenier
Associate Advisor
Melissa Bray
Associate Advisor
Joseph Renzulli
Associate Advisor
Sally Reis
Field of Study
Educational Psychology
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Open Access
Open Access
Abstract
Twice exceptional learners are typically defined as learners who fit the description of gifted while also meeting the parameters for a learning difference, such as learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, emotional disturbances, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, etc. These students have special social/emotional needs and special needs in education, and are at particular risk of underachievement and not meeting their full academic potential. The bulk of the previous research has focused primarily on gifted students with learning disabilities, and also has been conducted principally in primary and secondary education settings. This study examined four gifted post-secondary students with a variety of learning differences in a qualitative exploration of their perceptions and experiences. The study utilized basic interpretive qualitative methodology, and gathered data using an open-ended questionnaire and one-on-one semi-structured interviews with the students to gain information relating to the students’ perceptions and experiences as a twice exceptional learner. The findings of this study suggest that many twice exceptional learners have negative experiences and endure traumas related to their diagnosis in the school setting. It was also found that these learners are often unsure of their place in peer groups and feel different from others; they are often hesitant to disclose their diagnosis due to concerns of judgment or misunderstandings. In spite of these traumas, the findings indicate that the learners in this study display resiliency and are able to overcome obstacles. It was found that family support, developing compensation strategies and coping mechanisms, stress management, and accommodating school staff were found to play a large role in student academic success. This dissertation compares this study’s findings to previous research, discusses the implications of these findings, and offers suggestions for future research.
Recommended Citation
D'Souza, Stephanie L., "Academically Gifted University Students with Learning Differences: A Qualitative Exploration of the Experiences and Perceptions of Twice Exceptional University Students" (2014). Doctoral Dissertations. 448.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/dissertations/448